HOME BUYERS GUIDE
Home Buyers Guide
HOME BUYERS GUIDE
Buy your dream home with confidence.
Our Home Buyers Guide makes the path to homeownership simple and stress-free. From preparing your finances to getting your keys, we’ll help you make confident, informed decisions—whether you’re a first-time buyer or moving up to your next home.
Get the Keys to Your First Home
Competitive Rates
Our low rates make homeownership more affordable for first-time buyers, helping you save money from day one.
Flexible Terms
Choose a loan term that gives you lower payments or a faster payoff.
Personalized Service
Get expert guidance every step of the way from loan experts who understand your needs as a first-time buyer.
Steps to Buying a Home
Step 1: Prepare
Your credit score and savings are the foundation of homeownership. Work on paying down debt, making payments on time, and saving for your down payment, closing costs, and other expenses that come with buying a home.
Step 2: Get Pre-Qualified
Connect with a lender to review your income, credit, and debt. Getting pre-qualified (or pre-approved) gives you a clear price range for your home search and shows sellers you’re a serious buyer.
Step 3: Start House Hunting
Partner with a trusted agent who can guide you through listings, neighborhoods, and negotiations. Define your must-haves—think about size, location, features, and budget to narrow your options and find homes that fit your lifestyle.
Step 4: Make an Offer
Once you’ve found “the one,” your agent will help you draft a competitive offer. Be prepared for negotiations, counteroffers, and possibly an earnest money deposit to show your commitment.
Step 5: Find The Right Mortgage Loan For You and Close
Compare mortgage types and terms to find the one that best fits your financial goals. We offer a variety of mortgage options to suit your budget, including our 3% Down Payment Program. After your offer is accepted, you’ll finalize paperwork, complete inspections, and attend closing to get the keys to your new home.
Step 6: Live Happily Ever After
Congratulations—you’re a homeowner! Now it’s time to move in, make the space your own, and start building memories in your new home.
Ready to get started?
Not sure where to start? We’ve got you.
Ready to get started?
Not sure where to start? We’ve got you.
COLUMBIA CU WORKSHOPS
First Time Homebuyer Workshops
Every third Wednesday of each month, we host free workshops to help first-time buyers navigate the homebuying journey with confidence.
These sessions cover everything from preparing your finances and understanding loan options to closing on your first home. Led by local mortgage experts, our events are designed to give you practical tools, clear guidance, and peace of mind as you take the first step toward homeownership.
COLUMBIA CU WORKSHOPS
First Time Homebuyer Workshops
Every third Wednesday of each month, we host free workshops to help first-time buyers navigate the homebuying journey with confidence.
These sessions cover everything from preparing your finances and understanding loan options to closing on your first home. Led by local mortgage experts, our events are designed to give you practical tools, clear guidance, and peace of mind as you take the first step toward homeownership.
MORTGAGE OPTIONS
Flexible loan options for every homebuyer.
Bring homeownership within reach with one of our many mortgage options. Whether you need a low down payment, a flexible credit requirement, or help refinancing, we’ve got a solution that works for you.
- 3% Down Payment Program
- FHA Loans
- VA Loans
- USDA Loans
- Construction Loans
- 80/20 Loans
- Refinancing Options
- Buy & Renovate Loans
- Bridge Loans
- Living Green Mortgages
- RetireIt! Mortgages
MORTGAGE OPTIONS
Flexible loan options for every homebuyer.
Bring homeownership within reach with one of our many mortgage options. Whether you need a low down payment, a flexible credit requirement, or help refinancing, we’ve got a solution that works for you.
- 3% Down Payment Program
- FHA Loans
- VA Loans
- USDA Loans
- Construction Loans
- 80/20 Loans
- Refinancing Options
- Buy & Renovate Loans
- Bridge Loans
- Living Green Mortgages
- RetireIt! Mortgages
HOME LOANS
How to apply for a mortgage loan
- Apply Online: Click the link below or stop by a branch to start the process.
- Application Review: We’ll review your application and give you a fast decision.
- Close and Save: Finalize your new mortgage by signing the loan documents.
HOME LOANS
How to apply for a mortgage loan
- Apply Online: Click the link below or stop by a branch to start the process.
- Application Review: We’ll review your application and give you a fast decision.
- Close and Save: Finalize your new mortgage by signing the loan documents.
★★★★★
"Whether purchasing an automobile or a home with Columbia CU, the staff are always professional, friendly, and committed to their members and our community!! Helping all thrive together."
- Joseph S.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you get a first-time homebuyer’s loan? We offer a variety of home loan options that are ideal for first-time buyers, including FHA, VA, and USDA loans. First-time homebuyer assistance is also available through the Home Advantage and House Key Opportunity Programs. Contact one of our experienced home loan officers to explore your eligibility and learn more about our first-time homebuyer loans and mortgage assistance programs.
Government-backed loans like FHA, VA, and USDA loans are among the most accessible and affordable for first-time homebuyers. They offer lower down payments, flexible credit requirements, and competitive interest rates, which makes it easier to qualify.
Certain factors may disqualify you from a first-time homebuyer loan. Common disqualifiers include exceeding income limits set by assistance programs, having a low credit score, carrying high debt, lacking a stable employment history, and not completing a mandatory homebuyer education course.
A minimum credit score of 650 is preferred for home loans for first-time homebuyers. Other factors will be considered for loan approval, including your income, work history, and current debits.
Mortgage pre-approval is an optional first step in the mortgage process. With mortgage pre-approval, your financial information will be reviewed and you will receive an estimate of how much you qualify to borrow for a home. It gives you a clear price range to help you narrow your search for homes you know you can afford. Pre-qualification also tells sellers you’re a serious buyer.
From the application to the closing, the process usually takes 30–45 days. To prevent delays, be sure to respond promptly to lender requests for additional documentation.
Yes, you can qualify for a home loan with existing debt. When you apply for a home loan, your financial situation will be assessed to make sure you can handle the mortgage payments without being overextended.
Many self-employed individuals qualify for home loans, but additional documentation may be required to verify your income. You may have to provide tax returns, business financial statements, and additional documents as requested.
CALCULATORS
Mortgage Calculator
Use our handy mortgage calculators for budgeting help, loan calculations, and more.
CALCULATORS
Mortgage Calculator
Use our handy mortgage calculators for budgeting help, loan calculations, and more.
More great financing options
Personal Loans
A personal loan is a flexible way to tackle high-interest debt, plan a big purchase, or cover life’s surprises. There are no hidden fees and terms of up to 60 months ensure you get payments you can afford.
Auto Loan Refinance
Get a better deal on your auto loan! We’ll look to lower your existing auto rate by up to 1.00% APR. Plus, take an additional 0.25% APR off when you set up automatic payments from your Columbia CU checking account.
Credit Cards
Take advantage of a credit card with fewer fees, low rates, no annual or balance transfer fees, and fraud protection for all of your daily spending needs. Plus, earn valuable rewards on your purchases!
